South Korean police to push for licences for personal mobility devices

SEOUL - Police are pushing to introduce driver’s licences dedicated specifically for personal mobility devices, such as electric scooters or motorised bicycles, according to the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA).

“The agency is planning to derive a reasonable proposal by January next year at the latest, after conducting surveys and consultations with related agencies and organisations by the end of this year,” a KNPA official told the press on Nov 19.

Currently, three methods are being considered for obtaining the license: taking a written test, taking both a written and practical skills test, or completing an online education program.

The move came after criticism that current regulations are not enough to prevent the recent controversy surrounding such devices and traffic accidents caused by them.

Currently, drivers with Class 2 Small or Motorised Bicycle licences and Class 1 and 2 General licences are permitted to drive personal mobility devices. However, there has been widespread opinion that requiring a driver’s license is inappropriate, as operating these devices is fundamentally different from vehicles like motorised bicycles in terms of speed and structure.

Previously, the KNPA had pushed to introduce licences specifically for personal mobility devices, with proposals presented to the National Assembly in 2021 and 2023.

However, the bill was repeatedly scrapped due to opposing opinions. THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK